
Moominvalley Park Guide - A Theme Park Where You Can Experience the World of the Moomin Stories
Located about an hour from Tokyo, Moominvalley Park is a theme park that immerses you in the world of the beloved Finnish characters, the Moomins.
Surprisingly, Japan is the only country besides Finland to have a Moomin theme park.
The buildings featured in the original stories have been faithfully recreated, making it a popular destination where both children and adults can not only take photos but also enjoy a variety of activities that bring the stories to life.
This article introduces all the charms of Moominvalley Park, even for those who may not be familiar with the Moomin stories.
What Is Moominvalley Park?
Features
Moominvalley Park is located in Hanno City, Saitama Prefecture, which is known as a “Forest and Culture City.” The park is part of the large Metsä complex, which is about the size of four Tokyo Domes, and it faithfully recreates the world of the Moomin stories.
Structures such as the Moominhouse, the bathing hut, and the lighthouse from the original stories are brought to life, offering visitors a chance to experience the Moomin universe firsthand.
The park is popular with visitors of all ages and offers beautiful seasonal scenery, such as fresh greenery in May and colorful autumn leaves in November.
A leisurely walk through the wooded paths or along the lakeside is sure to soothe your soul.

Access
Its easy accessibility—just about an hour from Tokyo—is another appealing point.
Below are the main ways to get there from Tokyo.
By train
From Ikebukuro Station, take the Seibu Ikebukuro Line express to Hanno Station (approx. 47 minutes).
From the north exit of Hanno Station, take the bus bound for “Metsä” from platform No.1 (approx. 13 minutes).
By direct bus
On weekends and holidays, a special Moomin-themed bus operates from Tokyo Station.
The ride takes about an hour and a half, making it a convenient option if the timing works out.
Why Japan?
In fact, there is a deep connection between Japan and the Moomins.
In the same city of Hanno where the park is located, you’ll also find the “Tove Jansson Akebono Children’s Forest Park.”
Its design concept was developed through correspondence with the Moomin creator, Tove Jansson herself.
Surrounded by nature reminiscent of Finland, Hanno was seen as the ideal place to recreate the world of the Moomin stories.

Feel at Ease, Even on Your First Visit! 5 Tips for Enjoying Moominvalley Park to the Fullest
The moment you step into the park, you'll find yourself in the enchanting world of the Moomin stories, just like stepping into a novel.
From here, let us introduce some helpful tips to make the most of your visit to Moominvalley Park.

1. Take Photos with the Moomin Characters in the Morning
Inside the park, you may come across characters like Moomintroll, Little My, and Snufkin taking strolls.
However, where and when they appear is a surprise to enjoy on the day of your visit.

If you definitely want to meet the characters, it’s best to arrive early, right when the park opens.
It’s said that in the morning hours, the Moominvalley friends often come out to greet guests.
Note: Depending on the season or events, there may be times when the Moominvalley characters do not appear for greetings.

Snufkin is sometimes seen playing the harmonica as he walks. If you ask, he may even perform a birthday song just for you.
Being able to interact with the characters is one of the unique joys of this park.

2. Enjoy Dancing at Emma’s Theatre
At “Emma’s theatre,” where the Moominvalley friends take the stage, you can enjoy a lively live entertainment show featuring singing and dancing, perfect for both adults and children.
The show programs change depending on the season and day of the week, so be sure to check the official website in advance.

3. Discover New Views at Every Visit with the Many Photo Spots
The park is full of photo spots, and seasonal decorations make them especially fun to explore.
You’ll encounter different scenery every time you visit.
Some of the buildings are inspired by the color palettes of old towns in Finland, where Moomin author Tove Jansson was born—don’t miss them!



4. Deepen Your Understanding of the Story with the Audio Guide
Once you arrive at the park, be sure to check out the audio guide.
This recommended feature lets you walk through and experience the story as you go, allowing for a deeper immersion into the world of Moomins.
The guide is available in Japanese, English, Chinese, and Korean, and can be used free of charge.
You can listen to the story behind each exhibit, making your visit to Moominvalley Park even more enjoyable.

The narration is provided by popular Japanese voice actors, making you feel as if you're truly in Moominvalley.
The audio plays automatically using location-based triggers, so you can enjoy it hands-free without having to operate your smartphone.
5. Learn About the Stories and the Author at “Kokemus”
Inside the indoor facility “Kokemus,” you’ll find extensive exhibits on the Moomin stories and their creator, Tove Jansson.
The displays are designed in a way that even children can enjoy and learn at the same time.
The more you understand the stories, the more you'll appreciate exploring the park.
Start with the hands-on exhibit themed around an adventure to find Little My.

Although the exhibits are in Japanese, scanning the QR codes allows you to view English versions of the stories.
The English version lets you read the original picture books in English, so it’s definitely worth checking out.


Next, head to the “Moominvalley Gallery,” where you can learn more about the Moomin stories and characters.
There are interactive exhibits you can touch and explore, as well as quizzes, so even children will stay engaged and entertained.


Top 3 Immersive Activities to Experience the World of the Moomins
Moominvalley Park offers a variety of immersive activities that let visitors relive scenes from the stories.
1. Thrilling “Hobgoblin’s Zipline”
Soar about 400 meters over the lake on this exhilarating zipline ride.
Available on weekends and holidays only (with an extra fee), this is a popular activity that captures the spirit of Moomin adventures.


2. A Sensory Experience aboard the “Oshun Oxtra Theatre”
This immersive morphing theatre tells the story of a young Moominpappa.
With effects like wind and water splashes paired with video, you’ll feel as if you’ve stepped right into the world of the story.

3. Full of Fun for Kids! “Hemulen’s Playground”
Located in the Lonely Mountain area, this athletic playground is inspired by the story about Hemulen.
Kids can climb ladders, slide down slides, and fully engage in active play within the treehouse featured in the story.

Step into “Restaurant Moominvalley,” a Dining Space Inspired by a Nighttime Party
Within the park, you’ll find various food spots, including takeout stands, restaurants, and cafes.
Among them, “Restaurant Moominvalley” offers a unique menu inspired by Moomin characters.
The interior is designed to evoke the feeling of being invited to a whimsical nighttime party hosted by the Moomin family.

Dishes such as Snufkin’s Hat Curry and Flying Jacob Stew are not only flavorful but also highly photogenic.
Many items feature rare flavors in Japan, giving you a taste of Nordic charm.


Shop for Limited Edition Items at One of the World’s Largest Moomin Stores
Located inside the exhibition facility Kokemus, the official shop is one of the largest Moomin stores in the world in terms of floor space and product selection.
From items imported directly from Finland to exclusive park merchandise, the store is packed with exciting finds that are enjoyable to browse—even if you don’t buy anything.

Among the most popular items are plush toys.
Interestingly, the facial expressions differ between the Finnish and Japanese versions—be sure to compare them!


Two Value-Packed Plans That Include Transportation and Admission
There are convenient plans that combine transportation from Tokyo with park admission at a discounted price.
1. [Weekends Only] Highway Bus from Tokyo Station
A direct bus featuring Moomin illustrations runs between Tokyo Station and the park on weekends and holidays.
This plan includes the admission fee and offers the best overall value.

2. Digital All-Day Pass for the Entire Seibu Railway Line
This convenient digital ticket can be purchased and used with just a smartphone.
It includes one-day admission to the park and unlimited rides on all Seibu Railway lines, making it perfect for combining your visit with nearby attractions like Kawagoe or Seibuen Yuenchi.
Wrap-up
What we’ve introduced here is just a glimpse of everything Moominvalley Park has to offer.
There are plenty more attractions, such as the all-weather "Playground of Moominvalley" for children, "Theatre of Moominvalley," and various arcade games.
Whether you're already a Moomin fan or completely new to the world of the Moomins, a visit to this park will surely deepen your appreciation of the beloved characters.
Why not make Moominvalley Park your next travel destination, where healing and adventure await?
©Moomin Characters™